"This is an excellent book. It is sophisticated and very well argued, showing an impressive expertise on the subject matter, both as regards the philosophy of the Enlightenment and the reality of the contemporary world. As the book is written in a very clear and engaging manner, it would be appealing and useful to scholars and researchers as well as to students and educated laypersons. This book is an exciting read both for those interested in understanding our world better and for those interested in improving it." --The European Legacy "The author should be applauded for the manner in which he is able to successfully combine philosophical investigation with empirical research. The frequent citing of original sources, especially those of Kant, as well as a rich collection of endnotes, make this volume an important contribution to Early Modern Philosophy and Enlightenment studies. But perhaps most important, this is a text that should resonate with any member of the educated citizenry who perceives the discrepancy between Enlightenment ideals and current realities and is deeply troubled by the current state of our world."--David W.

Rodick, The Review of Metaphysics "This book will interest readers seeking to familiarize themselves with Enlightenment views on the issues discussed."--D.C. Kolb, CHOICE "Rich in empirical study and powerful in philosophical analysis, Louden's book belies everybody who declares the Enlightenment project dead. Once again the author of Kant's Impure Ethics presents an impressive volume."--Beatrix Himmelmann, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews.